Australia backs Bangladesh on climate justice and women’s rights

The Australian government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Bangladesh's development, including advancing climate justice, addressing crises, and ensuring women's rights.

Australia's Ambassador for Climate Change, Kristin Tilley, assured continued cooperation during a bilateral meeting held on Thursday (20 February) at ActionAid Bangladesh's central office in Gulshan. Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Susan Ryle, and ActionAid Bangladesh Country Director, Farah Kabir, were also present.

Kristin Tilley, Australia's Climate Change Envoy, stressed the importance of collective efforts by both government and non-government organisations to ensure climate justice.

"Climate justice can only be achieved when we prioritise the voices of those directly affected by climate change. That is why we must listen to the struggles of marginalised communities and support them accordingly. ActionAid Bangladesh, a non-governmental development organisation, has played a significant role in the country's progress. We are pleased to partner with them in this effort, and I look forward to contributing to the nation's development, particularly in securing climate justice and women's rights," she stated.

Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Susan Ryle highlighted the importance of empowering women and young people in amplifying the voices of marginalised communities on a global platform.

"Australia and Bangladesh share a long-standing partnership, and we are both committed to pursuing climate justice. We are determined to work for the marginalised communities of Bangladesh, especially those most vulnerable to climate change. We focus on improving women's and young people's livelihoods and leadership development, as their voices are the most critical in shaping a just and sustainable future," she remarked.

Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, reflected on the organisation's long-standing engagement in climate justice.

"ActionAid Bangladesh began its journey in 1982 in Bhola in response to climate-induced disasters. Our fight for climate justice has continued ever since. We have observed that the most vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, and older people, bear the effects of climate change. We hope that through our partnership with Australia, we can scale up our efforts to improve their quality of life and resilience," she stated.

During the meeting, representatives from the Australian High Commission discussed with members of frontline communities affected by climate change. Dulali Begum from Kalapara in Patuakhali district and Rexona Khatun from Shyamnagar shared their experiences of hardship and resilience in the face of climate crises.

Raihan Nurnabi, a youth representative working on climate issues, and officials from the Australian High Commission and ActionAid Bangladesh were also present at the meeting.